India, Feb. 25 -- By Dr. R. Balasubramaniam

Petty corruption is one of those experiences that does not arrive with drama. It slips in quietly, usually at a traffic signal or a government counter and leaves behind a familiar mix of irritation, resignation and reluctant participation. It is almost apologetic in its entry, as though saying sorry for the inconvenience while firmly settling in.

Having spent time as a Special Investigator in the Karnataka Lokayukta and having stood shoulder to shoulder with Team Anna during those intense days of protest, I am still unsure how to describe the feeling it evokes. Anger seems inadequate. Moral outrage feels theatrical. Helplessness comes closest, but even that does not fully capture it, largely b...